Housing Discrimination/Fair Housing

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WHAT IS HOUSING DISCRIMINATION

The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, or national origin in housing.

The Act applies to almost all housing and housing providers in the United States, including private landlords and property management firms, property owners, federally-assisted housing, public housing authorities, realtors, and lenders and insurers of housing.

It also applies to individuals, such as neighbors, who intimidate, coerce or interfere with the fair housing rights of others. The Act deals with the sale, rental or financing of housing, as well as any advertisements or statements with respect to housing.

Discrimination based on a person’s source of income (see next paragraph)

SOURCE OF INCOME

In Connecticut, Section 8 is considered a “lawful source of income” (Connecticut General Statutes Sec. 46a-64) and it is illegal to refuse to rent to a person who has a Section 8 housing voucher.

HOW TO FILE A COMPLAINT

Connecticut residents who have been trying to buy or rent a home or apartment and believe their rights have been violated should contact the Connecticut Fair Housing Center first. This agency will send testers to collect proof that an agency or landlord is discriminating, and they will also help with filing complaints with the appropriate state and federal agencies.

2-1-1 is a program of United Way of Connecticut and is supported by the State of Connecticut and Connecticut United Ways.

Central Intake/Assessment for Substance Use Disorder

Substance Use Disorder Programs that serve as an intake for agencies which evaluate individuals who are in need of substance use services and are directed to the number of subsidized beds that may be available in the community. Some programs may also offer medical detoxification services for people who need them.